Tortolita Mountains

Rising to 4,696 feet on Tucson’s northwest horizon, the Tortolita Mountains may be the smallest of the city’s five ranges, but what they lack in size, they more than make up for in stories. This rugged, cactus-studded landscape of jagged peaks, hidden gullies, and sweeping alluvial fans – formed over centuries by sediment carried down from the highlands by streams and rivers – has long been a place of connection between people, nature, and time. More than 1,500 years ago, the Hohokam people made their homes in and around these mountains, thriving there for over seven centuries. Today, the remnants of their villages, artifacts, and irrigation systems remain, waiting to be discovered by curious visitors.

Activities

The Tortolitas offer more than just outdoor recreation – they provide a window into the past. Whether you're hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding, the trails here lead through both stunning desert scenery and sites of historical significance. Birdwatchers can spot native species in their natural habitat, and photographers will appreciate the mix of sweeping views and cultural landmarks.

Trails

The Tortolita Mountains are home to a well-connected network of trails with several convenient access points. To the south, the 2,400-acre Tortolita Preserve in Marana features nine miles of scenic trails through classic Sonoran Desert terrain. To the north and east, Pima County’s 3,100-acre Tortolita Mountain Park adds more than 29 miles of rugged paths for exploration. Rounding out the area’s trail options, the eastern foothills are home to Oro Valley’s Honeybee Village ruins, a former Hohokam settlement, where three miles of trails offer a blend of natural beauty and cultural history.

Here are just a few of our favorite Tortolita Mountains trails:

Easy

Honeybee Canyon North (2.3 miles) – A gentle trail that follows a dry riverbed, this route features scenic views, towering saguaros, and striking rock formations. The highlight: ancient petroglyphs etched into stone at the trail’s end – a glimpse into the region’s past.
Honeybee Canyon South Trail (1.2 miles) – This short loop mixes paved and unpaved paths and transitions quickly from open desert to a shaded, rocky canyon. Along the way, pass through a historic stone wall with a doorway – one of the trail's most memorable features.

Honeybee Canyon Park & Trailhead

Moderate

Wild Burro Trail (7.1 miles) – This trail serves as the main access point to several others, including Upper Javelina and Wild Mustang, making it ideal for longer excursions. It starts off weaving through a dry wash, then climbs gradually into more rugged terrain. Watch for wildflowers around the stone ruins of what appears to be an old ranch building.
Tortolita Preserve Loop (9.5 miles) – A favorite among hikers, birders, and mountain bikers, this trail offers a peaceful experience, especially during off-peak hours. The narrow dirt path (sandy in places) winds through classic Sonoran Desert scenery, dotted with saguaros and blooming wildflowers in spring and summer. Trailhead parking and restrooms are available.

Hard

Wild Burro and Alamo Springs Loop (12.2 miles) – Challenging and remote, this loop offers great opportunities for solitude in the Sonoran Desert, as well as nearly 2,000 feet of elevation gains. It's a solid choice for experienced hikers interested in a long-distance route with rewarding views and wildlife spotting.
Wild Burro, Loop and Ridgeline Trail (13.6 miles) – With nearly 2,300 feet of elevation gain, this strenuous route delivers sweeping views and a rugged, off-the-beaten-path experience with 2,300 feet of elevation gains. Ideal for hikers looking to immerse themselves in a more demanding slice of the Sonoran Desert.